Addressing Heirship Issues in Oil and Gas Leases: Legislative Proposals and Considerations, 1974-09-05

The Bureau of Indian Affairs and a Member of Congress have been in correspondence regarding the difficulties oil and gas lessees face in completing leases on heirship allotted Indian lands. The issue arises from the need for multiple co-owners to sign off on leases, which can be challenging and costly. Various legislative proposals have been discussed to address this problem, including expanding the Secretary's authority to execute leases on behalf of certain owners. Additional proposals include amending existing acts to facilitate leasing on heirship lands and extending authorities for surface and subsurface leases. The Bureau is open to working with Congress on these proposals to assist in managing fractionated estates.